LLOYD Money raised at Cerebral Palsy of Ulster County's second annual Accessibility Awareness Day will help fund group projects, said organizers.

The organization's event kicked off Sunday on the Highland side of Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park, to raise funds and community awareness about programs and handicapped-accessible public places. It featured a 5K run, assisted 1K race and a walk.

About 200 people showed up, though the overcast morning likely hurt attendance, said Lew Kirschner, a longtime committee board member.

Cerebral palsy is a group of disorders that affect one in 323 children, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Most children with cerebral palsy have "spastic CP," which means their muscles are stiff and their movements can appear awkward, the CDC reports.

The Lake Katrine-based Cerebral Palsy of Ulster County provides support to hundreds of people with developmental disabilities in Ulster, Dutchess, Greene and Columbia counties, including housing and residential services, and adult day programs, according to the group's information.

The annual event is fun for everyone involved, Kirschner said.

"It's just very touching to see the CP recipients happy and active," Kirschner added. "The smiles on their faces are worth $1 million."

The Walkway became more wheelchair-accessible with the recent opening of the City of Poughkeepsie-based elevator, although officials have warned the public to expect periodic closures.

Tiffany Cameron, 25, who assisted with a bake sale at the event, lives in one of the residences Cerebral Palsy of Ulster County oversees, for those with developmental disabilities who need supervision.

"It's a nice walk, I like it ... I enjoy it," Cameron said. "I help them sell the cupcakes."

Alan McGregor, who is wheelchair-bound because of cerebral palsy, was on the event committee and also lives in one of the organization's residences.

"For the past 22 years they've given me everything ... they go above and beyond," McGregor said of the group. "These guys can't do enough for me.

"As long as they have (the walk), I'll be here every year," McGregor added. "I have all my friends with me. So what more could I ask for?"